Maple Leafs Emerge As A Prime Destination For Top Four Defenseman

Brad Treliving made it clear that one of his goals was to make the Toronto Maple Leafs tougher. He did a great job this summer by acquiring Max Domi, Tyler Bertuzzi, and Ryan Reaves.

However, they also need to do something about their defensive unit.

Adding more toughness through a talented defenseman would be the ideal scenario.

Thus, a defenseman was linked to the Maple Leafs.

Nikita Zadorov, a defenseman for the Calgary Flames, would be a great fit in Toronto.

Not only do the past ties between Brad Treliving and the Flames facilitate a deal, but the Leafs also have a lot of assets to trade. Considering their high ambitions for this season, if a defenseman fitting Treliving's needs becomes available, parting ways with picks or prospects wouldn't hurt the future of the organization much.

Zadorov, 28, brings a physical presence. Standing at 6'6'', and weighing 235 lbs, he'd be a great addition to the Maple Leafs. He's good at breaking plays and clearing his zone. However, consistency has always been a major issue for him in the NHL.

He's currently playing the last season of his $3,750,000 AAV contract, initially signed by Treliving in Calgary.

There are a lot of potential trade candidates out there for the Maple Leafs, and Zadorov may not be the best one available, but if the cost isn't too high, Treliving might consider him, especially if the Flames retain a portion of his salary.

Would you like to see Zadorov in Toronto?

As seen on NHL Trade Rumors - Flames Rumors: 2 Potential Landing Spots for Zadorov